US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the conflict in Ukraine must reach a conclusion following his phone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Addressing recent strikes on Kyiv and warnings of further attacks, Rubio observed that such events underscore why the war, which has lasted longer than World War II, requires an end. Lavrov reiterated a prior notice urging the withdrawal of US diplomats from the Ukrainian capital due to safety concerns, though Rubio characterized the alert as one sent to multiple embassies about ongoing risks in the city. Several European diplomats, including the EU ambassador, indicated they would remain in place. Rubio also cautioned that prolonged conflicts carry risks of escalation and expansion. He noted that Lavrov passed along a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin to US President Donald Trump but provided no specifics. Additional coverage includes the European Commission president’s visit to Lithuania amid regional security concerns, a speech by a Hungarian opposition figure on proposed reforms, and Europe’s ongoing heatwave. It is Tuesday, 26 May 2026.
